How to prevent vaginal yeast infection?

Vaginal yeast infection occurs when there is an overgrowth of the fungus, candida albicans. Women who are diabetic, pregnant, under a lot of stress or have been taking antibiotics, corticosteroids and contraceptive pills, are more susceptible to vaginal yeast infections. Below are the 5 tips to prevent vaginal yeast infection.

• Take probiotics. Probiotics help restore the balance of the bacteria living in the female genital tract and inhibit the growth of yeast in women with recurrent infections.

• Practise good personal hygiene: It is important to wipe the anus from front to back to prevent bacteria in the anus from travelling to the vagina. • Wear cotton underwear. Candida thrives best in a damp and warm environment. Cotton wear absorbs moisture and perspiration better and thus reduces the risk of yeast infection.